It’s the busiest time of year for major D-I commitments in the nation’s No. 1 hotspot for lacrosse, the NY/NJ/CT tristate region. Get caught up right here, right now.
There are few things Ryan O’Connell can’t do on the lacrosse field.
The two-way midfielder for New Canaan High School (CT) is one of the most versatile players in the Class of 2017. O’Connell is a skilled and polished offensive player, excels on faceoffs and is also a tough defender.
So it should come as no surprise he had his choice of several of the nation’s top college programs, which makes his decision to attend Michigan all the more noteworthy. It’s one of the biggest recruiting coups in what has been a summer of success for the Big Blue, which has been documented as it’s evolved by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s Lacrosse Insider premium coverage section.
The 5-foot-11, 170-pound O’Connell, a lefty, even played some attack this summer with the Eclipse Lacrosse Club.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Ryan on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
The academics Michigan supplies, the feel I had on campus and the potential I believe the lacrosse team has to be a top contender.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I strongly considered UPenn, Maryland and Loyola. I also considered North Carolina and Duke, and I visited various other schools throughout the process.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
My ability to play both offense and defense, and my quickness when dodging — all of which help my style of play which is playing fast.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
I need to work on my outside shot as well as my shot speed.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
I was introduced to lacrosse by my cousins Michael and Teddy Bossidy when going into first grade. In addition to lacrosse, I also play football, and played hockey up until this year.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
I play for the Eclipse Lacrosse Club, and over the past year I have attended NXT Philly Showcase, Jake Reed Nike Bluechip and Maverik Showtime.
Any final thoughts?
I would really like to thank my parents for being with me and supporting me throughout the entire recruiting process.
I’d also like to thank my club coach Jamie Hanford for all his efforts and for taking the time to guide me through the process. In addition to them, I’d like to thank Mike Regan, my youth coach, who has helped me develop as a lacrosse player with each step I take.
Have a recruiting commitment to report? Send an email to info@laxlessons.com, contact Joe Lombardi directly at joe@laxlessons.com or send a Tweet to @Joe_Lombardi or @LaxLessons.
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Posted In: Connecticut, Fairfield, fciac, Recruiting Rundown
